We as humans are instinctively drawn to repeating patterns. Our eyes naturally catch on to recognisable patterns or symmetry. Artists all throughout history have used symmetry in their art to portray striking visuals. Symmetry in art existed even as far back as the Renaissance era, with artists such as Leonardo Da Vinci using it to create striking visuals.
An example is Da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” which depicts Jesus Christ and his 12 disciples sitting next to each other with Jesus in the centre. It’s a striking composition which uses pattern and repetition to emphasize the subject in the centre of the image.
Patterns and Repetition in Photography
This practice has invariably carried across to different art forms as well, case in point, photography. Patterns and repetition can be used to create striking images that instantly capture the viewer’s attention.
This is because it stimulates the pattern recognition part of the human brain. This works because our brain is particularly receptive to noticing familiar visual patterns.
Purpose of Patterns and Repetition
Using patterns and repetition in photography serves various purposes. Photographer Aristotle Roufanis conveys isolation and loneliness across a large cityscape or multiple-story complexes in his piece “Alone Together.” Patterns and repetition in photos can be used for the following purposes:
- To add depth to a photo. An example of this can be seen in the form of two back racks on both sides of a photo, which creates an imaginary line along the centre path of the image.
- To tell a story or a feeling. Photos using repetition can be used to convey a message or a feeling such as warmth, monotony or discomfort. An example of conveying a message through a photo is by French photographer and environmentalist Yann Arthus Bertrand and his photo “Newly planted Olive Groves.”
- To draw attention. Our brain is highly receptive to recognizable visual patterns. This habit can be used in photography to create beautiful images that fully capture the viewer’s attention.
- Abstraction. Abstract photography takes abstract patterns to create entirely unique, striking pictures that convey a deeper feeling or emotion.
How to Recognize Patterns and Repetition
Patterns can be created through various means. This could involve playing around with colours. A photographer can use two contrasting colours in a composition or change the angle of their shot to see potentially new patterns and examples of repetition.
Patterns and repetition can also be created by closing the frame and zooming into a specific detail.
How to Create Patterns and Repetition in Photography
Patterns can be created through various means. This could involve playing around with colours. A photographer can use two contrasting colours in a composition or change the angle of their shot to see potentially new patterns and examples of repetition.
Patterns and repetition can also be created by closing the frame and zooming into a specific detail.
FAQs
Who Are Some Artists Who Capture Patterns and Repetition in Their Photography?
Following are some examples of artists who effectively use patterns and repetition in their photography:
- Andreas Gursky
- Aristotle Roufanis
- Yann Arthus Bertrand
- Edward Burtynski
- Michael Wolf
What Are Some Examples of Repetitions in Daily Life?
We frequently stumble on examples of repetition in our daily lives. This could include the windows of apartment complexes, A flock of birds moving in sync, a rack of bikes, or even a nearby traffic crossing.
Patterns and repetition is another tool in your kit to take photography to the next level. Many photographers, whether consciously or subconsciously, try to capture symmetry in their pictures.
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